Vazquez retains IBF title via unanimous decision vs Gesta

(L-R) Mercito Gesta throws a left at Miguel Angel Vazquez during their IBF world lightweight title fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on December 8, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Al Bello/Getty Images/AFP

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino Mercito Gesta lost to Mexican Miguel Vazquez via unanimous decision Sunday (Manila time) in the undercard of Pacquiao-Marquez 4 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Vazquez, who retained his IBF lightweight title, dictated the bout from the get-go, using his reach by fighting inside and out to frustrate the erstwhile unbeaten Gesta (26-1-1, 14KOs).

The judges had it 117-111, 119-109, 118-110 for the quicker Vazquez.

Gesta landed a couple of blows but which hardly affected the champion, who just put on a boxing clinic.

Elusive and sneaky, Vazquez (33-2, 13KOs) connected on a straight right hand in the third round that backed Gesta up.